Pecs

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /pɛks/

Definitions

1. The expression identifies the muscular structure found in the anterior thoracic region that facilitates actions like pushing and lifting
2. It describes the large muscle mass in the chest crucial for facilitating arm movements and providing stability
3. The term refers to the prominent muscles located on the chest that are essential for movements such as pushing, lifting, and stabilizing the upper body

Etymology: The word is a clipping of "pectorals," which comes from the Latin adjective "pectoralis," meaning "of the breast." That adjective is built on "pectus," the Latin word for breast or chest. English has long used "pectoral" for things worn on or belonging to the chest, such as a pectoral cross or the jewelled breastplate of the Jewish high priest described in the Book of Exodus. Clipping the longer word into "pecs" is a common informal habit in English, the same process that produced "gym" from "gymnasium" and "fridge" from "refrigerator." The shortened form is used almost exclusively in casual or fitness contexts, while "pectoral" remains the term in anatomy and medicine.

Synonyms: pectorals, chest muscles